| Whiplash Headache- A Rare, but Serious Type of Headache |
|
Usually a whiplash headache gets resolved on its own in a few weeks after the injury has taken place. However, in some cases the pain can take a little longer and may persist for a few months. Ideally, the more pain one experiences immediately after the injury, the longer it takes for the pain to get resolved. In some cases, people suffering from a whiplash headache experience pain all over the head. On the other hand there are certain people who feel the pain only in particular parts of the head. The pain usually begins from the neck and travels up to the head. Symptoms Here are some of the symptoms of a whiplash headache that can help you identify the problem a little easily. * Neck pain or strain in the neck * Dizziness * Blurred vision * Memory problems * Irritability * Fatigue * Nausea * Vertigo * Numbness Usually a doctor will try moving your neck to identify the factors that trigger the pain. X ray, CT scan and MRI are the usual tests conducted to diagnose a whiplash headache. Treatment Since whiplash headache is an extension of pain that stimulates from the neck, treatments that comfort the neck will obviously help in dealing with the headache. Here are some of the treatments that can prove to be of help in treating a whiplash headache. * Massage. Massaging the affected area with warm oil on areas where you are experiencing pain including neck will prove to be helpful. However, make sure that you are not too rigorous in massaging the given area. * Ice. Ice down the area in pain. Use an ice pack and apply it over the area that is in pain for immediate effect. * Heat. Warm temperatures are often known to reduce the pain associated with a whiplash headache. Applying heat to the given area can also prove to be useful. * Stretching exercises. At times your doctor may prescribe you some stretching exercises. Slight stretching at times comforts the neck that in turn helps in relieving headache. * Medicines. In cases where the pain is mild, over the counter painkillers can prove to be of great help. However, if you are suffering from severe pain your doctor may prescribe you stronger medications. In some cases, even pain relieving injections may be given. Whiplash headaches can culminate into serious complications if not treated on time. So it is important that you get the problem diagnosed at the earliest and opt for adequate treatment. Related Articles
|
